Hangirioke (shallow brewing tub)

A hangirioke is a large, shallow, tub-shaped vessel used mainly in the sake brewing process. It serves a variety of purposes, including dividing the yeast starter (shubo) among tanks, transporting ingredients, and washing tools. Wooden hangirioke in particular are often used for moto-suri, the pole-ramming (grinding) of the mash in kimoto-style brewing. Their capacity generally ranges from about 140 to 360 liters, and they are an indispensable tool in the brewery.